# Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit > https://www.gilschaffnit.com > Last Updated: 2026-07-06 Gilbert Schaffnit is a Gainesville criminal defense lawyer with more than 40 years of experience who has devoted his legal practice for more than 30 years to the representation of individuals charged with criminal violations in Alachua County and across the state of Florida. ## Contact - Phone: +1-352-505-1799 - Address: 719 NE 1st St, Gainesville, FL 32601 ## Locations - Gainesville, FL - +1-352-505-1799 Areas served: Gainseville, Florida, US ## Practice Areas - Criminal Defense - Drug Crimes - Violent Crimes - Sex Crimes - Theft Crimes - Weapon Crimes - Juvenile Crimes ## Attorneys - Profile: https://www.gilschaffnit.com/attorney-profile/ Mr. Schaffnit is a member of the Florida Bar as well as the Bars of the Northern District of Florida, Middle District of Florida, the Sixth and Eleventh Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. ## Key Pages - Homepage: https://www.gilschaffnit.com/ - Attorneys: https://www.gilschaffnit.com/attorney-profile/ - Blog: https://www.gilschaffnit.com/blog/ - Contact: https://www.gilschaffnit.com/contact-us/ ## Social Profiles - https://www.facebook.com/p/Law-Offices-of-Gilbert-A-Schaffnit-100063523452528/ - https://www.yelp.com/biz/law-offices-of-gilbert-a-schaffnit-gainesville - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilbert-schaffnit-b5662a19/ ## Reviews - Rating: 5/5 based on 104 reviews ## Practice Area Details ### Gainesville Criminal Defense Lawyer https://www.gilschaffnit.com/ Gainesville criminal defense lawyer Gilbert A. Schaffnit helps with Florida sex crimes, drug charges, weapons offense, violent crimes, theft & more. ### Gainesville Criminal Defense https://www.gilschaffnit.com/gainesville-criminal-defense-lawyer/ At the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit, our Gainesville criminal defense lawyer brings more than 40 years of experience to every case we handle. ### Gainesville Sex Crimes Lawyer https://www.gilschaffnit.com/gainesville-sex-crimes-lawyer/ The Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit provides skilled defense for sex crime charges in Gainesville, protecting your rights throughout all legal proceedings. ### Gainesville Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer https://www.gilschaffnit.com/gainesville-federal-drug-crimes-lawyer/ Federal drug charges carry severe penalties. The Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit defends Gainesville clients against serious federal drug crime allegations. ## Recent Articles ### A Dozen Men Arrested for Human Trafficking https://www.gilschaffnit.com/a-dozen-men-arrested-for-human-trafficking/ (2026-07-06) Contact a Florida minor sex offense lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit right away to ensure a strong defense and help ensure a fair trial and good outcome. ### Man Arrested for Child Porn After Discussing Sexual Abuse on App https://www.gilschaffnit.com/man-arrested-for-child-porn-after-discussing-sexual-abuse-on-app/ (2026-06-30) Contact a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit right away to ensure a strong defense and help ensure a fair trial and good outcome. ### Pastor Arrested for Child Porn Possession https://www.gilschaffnit.com/pastor-arrested-for-child-porn-possession/ (2026-06-16) Get the help you need by contacting a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit. ### Florida Man Arrested for Cyberstalking Police Officer on Facebook https://www.gilschaffnit.com/florida-man-arrested-for-cyberstalking-police-officer-on-facebook/ (2026-06-08) A Florida computer & internet crime lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit can assist you if you are facing charges. ### Former Pilot, Instructor Charged With Child Porn Possession https://www.gilschaffnit.com/former-pilot-instructor-charged-with-child-porn-possession/ (2026-06-03) Arrested for a child porn crime? You need to act quickly. Get the help you need from a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit. ### Human Trafficking Investigation Leads to Arrest of Corrections Officer https://www.gilschaffnit.com/human-trafficking-investigation-leads-to-arrest-of-corrections-officer/ (2026-05-27) A Florida minor sex offense lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit can assist you with your case. We can provide you with valuable advice and a strong defense. ### Summer Camp Counselor Accused of using Bitcoin to Buy Child Porn https://www.gilschaffnit.com/summer-camp-counselor-accused-of-using-bitcoin-to-buy-child-porn/ (2026-05-21) If you are in legal trouble due to sex crimes involving children, seek help right away from a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit. ### Florida Man Arrested for Generating AI Child Porn https://www.gilschaffnit.com/florida-man-arrested-for-generating-ai-child-porn/ (2026-04-29) A Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit can assist you if you are facing charges. ### Man Arrested, Jailed for Child Porn Charges https://www.gilschaffnit.com/man-arrested-jailed-for-child-porn-charges/ (2026-04-21) Protect your rights and freedom with help from a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit. ### Florida Man Faces 1,000+ Years in Prison for Child Porn Charges https://www.gilschaffnit.com/florida-man-faces-1000-years-in-prison-for-child-porn-charges/ (2026-04-13) If this has happened to you, contact a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit right away. ## Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the difference between a healthcare fraud investigation and a healthcare fraud charge? A: An investigation means federal or state agencies are gathering evidence. No charges have been filed yet, and you may not even know you are a target. A charge means the government has presented its case to a grand jury and obtained an indictment, or filed a criminal information if a plea is being arranged. Legal representation during the investigation phase can sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all. Q: Can a billing error be treated as criminal fraud? A: The government must generally prove willful or knowing conduct to establish criminal fraud, which means honest billing mistakes should not lead to criminal prosecution. However, prosecutors often argue that a pattern of errors demonstrates knowing conduct, which is why having experienced defense counsel to challenge that characterization is critical. Q: What federal agencies investigate healthcare fraud in Florida? A: The primary agencies involved in Florida healthcare fraud investigations include the FBI, the HHS Office of Inspector General, the Florida Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Department of Justice. In significant cases, the IRS Criminal Investigation division may also participate, particularly when money laundering or tax fraud is alleged alongside billing fraud. Q: Does a healthcare fraud conviction affect a medical license? A: Yes. A criminal conviction for healthcare fraud typically triggers mandatory reporting obligations and can result in proceedings before the Florida Department of Health. Federal healthcare fraud convictions can also lead to exclusion from participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs, which effectively ends a clinical career. Defending the criminal case aggressively is the first and most important step in protecting professional licensure. Q: Can someone charged with healthcare fraud receive probation rather than prison time? A: Federal sentencing guidelines for healthcare fraud are tied largely to loss amounts and other enhancement factors. In cases involving lower dollar amounts, first-time offenders, and strong mitigating circumstances, probationary outcomes can be pursued. Effective advocacy at sentencing, including the presentation of character evidence, cooperation considerations, and expert analysis of loss calculations, can significantly influence the outcome. Q: What is a qui tam lawsuit and how does it relate to healthcare fraud criminal cases? A: A qui tam lawsuit is filed by a private individual, often a former employee, under the False Claims Act. It allows that individual to report fraud against the government and receive a portion of any recovery. These civil actions are frequently the trigger for parallel criminal investigations. Someone named in a qui tam case may not initially realize that criminal exposure exists alongside the civil claims. Q: How does the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit approach healthcare fraud cases? A: The firm accepts a limited number of cases to ensure each client receives individualized attention. Gilbert Schaffnit works with clients from the earliest stages of investigation through trial, sentencing, and appeals. His approach involves a thorough challenge to all evidence, aggressive pre-indictment advocacy where appropriate, and a non-judgmental, confidential environment for clients to discuss their situations openly. Q: Can I be investigated for a sex crime without being arrested? A: Yes. Law enforcement frequently conducts investigations before making an arrest, particularly in cases involving internet activity, allegations by minors, or complaints that require additional evidence gathering. If you know or suspect you are being investigated, retaining an attorney immediately is advisable. Early legal representation can sometimes affect the outcome of the investigation itself. Q: What happens if the alleged victim recants or refuses to cooperate? A: Prosecutors in Florida have the authority to proceed with a sex crime case even if the alleged victim chooses not to cooperate or recants a prior statement. The state may rely on other evidence, prior statements, or witness testimony to move forward. A recantation does not automatically result in a dismissal, though it can significantly affect the strength of the prosecution's case. Q: Does a sex crime conviction always result in sex offender registration? A: Not every sex-related offense triggers registration requirements under Florida law, but many do. The specific charge, the circumstances of the offense, and the age of any individuals involved all factor into whether registration is required. An experienced attorney can explain the registration implications of specific charges before any resolution is reached. Q: What is the difference between a sex offender and a sexual predator designation in Florida? A: Florida law distinguishes between the two classifications. A sexual predator designation carries more severe restrictions and is assigned based on specific qualifying offenses or repeat offenses. Both designations require registration, but the obligations and consequences attached to a sexual predator classification are significantly more burdensome. Q: Can I get off the sex offender registry in Florida? A: Certain individuals may qualify for removal from the Florida Sex Offender Registry after meeting specific criteria, including the passage of a required number of years following completion of their sentence and the absence of subsequent offenses. The process requires filing a Petition with the Court, and not everyone qualifies. An attorney familiar with this process can evaluate your eligibility and handle the filing on your behalf. Q: What if my case involves federal charges? A: Federal sex crime prosecutions, particularly those involving child pornography, internet solicitation across state lines, or sex trafficking, are pursued aggressively and carry substantial mandatory minimum sentences under federal sentencing guidelines. Defense in federal court requires an attorney admitted to federal practice. Gilbert Schaffnit is admitted to multiple federal courts, including the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and has experience representing clients in federal criminal ... Q: Can I be charged with insurance fraud even if the insurance company paid the claim without question? A: Yes. Payment of a claim does not immunize anyone from prosecution. Florida law and federal statutes define the crime based on the act of making a false or fraudulent claim, not on whether the insurer ultimately detected and rejected it. Payment may actually be used as evidence of harm to the insurer in calculating restitution. Q: What happens if I am also facing a civil lawsuit from the insurance company at the same time as criminal charges? A: This is not uncommon. Insurance companies can pursue civil recovery independently of any criminal prosecution. The two proceedings run on different tracks with different standards of proof, but statements you make in one proceeding can potentially be used in the other. This is one of several reasons why having experienced legal representation from the outset is essential to managing both exposures. Q: Is it possible for charges to be reduced or dismissed in an insurance fraud case? A: Yes, and this is a realistic goal in many cases. Gilbert Schaffnit's practice is specifically oriented toward achieving a reduction or dismissal of charges, an acquittal, or a positive outcome such as probation. The specific path depends on the facts of each case and what defenses are available, but plea negotiations and pretrial motions are both legitimate tools. Q: What court handles insurance fraud cases in Gainesville? A: State insurance fraud cases in Gainesville are handled at the Alachua County Criminal Justice Center, located at 220 South Main Street. Federal insurance fraud cases are heard in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida, with a courthouse also in Gainesville at 401 SE First Avenue. Q: Does being charged with insurance fraud affect my professional license? A: For licensed professionals including physicians, nurses, attorneys, contractors, and others, a fraud conviction can trigger separate disciplinary proceedings before a licensing board. These proceedings are independent of the criminal case and can result in suspension or revocation of a license even if the criminal penalties are resolved favorably. Q: How long does a federal insurance fraud investigation typically last before charges are filed? A: Federal investigations can extend for one to several years before any charges are formally brought. This extended timeline reflects the government's effort to build a comprehensive case. The length of the pre-charge period is part of why contacting a defense attorney at the earliest sign of investigation, rather than waiting for an arrest, can make a meaningful difference. Q: Can Gilbert Schaffnit represent clients outside of Gainesville in insurance fraud cases? A: Yes. The firm represents clients statewide and nationwide. Gilbert Schaffnit has been admitted pro hac vice in courts outside Florida and has represented clients in federal jurisdictions across the United States, including in the Southern District of Florida. Q: Can robbery charges be reduced to a lesser offense in Florida? A: Yes, in some cases. Depending on the specific facts, the strength of the evidence, and the defendant's prior record, a robbery charge may potentially be reduced to theft, strong-arm assault, or another less serious offense through negotiation with the prosecution. These outcomes are not guaranteed and depend heavily on the quality of the defense presented and the specific circumstances involved in the case. Q: What is the difference between robbery and strong-arm robbery in Florida? A: Strong-arm robbery is the common term used for robbery committed without a weapon. It is still a second-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to fifteen years in prison, significant fines, and other serious penalties. The absence of a weapon does not make the charge minor. Q: Does Florida require a mandatory minimum sentence for robbery? A: Mandatory minimum sentences in Florida robbery cases are triggered by the use or possession of a firearm under the 10-20-Life statute. Without a firearm, the sentencing guidelines do not carry the same rigid floor, though robbery still scores significant prison time under Florida's Criminal Punishment Code depending on offense severity and prior record. Q: What happens if I am accused of robbery but I did not use a weapon or hurt anyone? A: Florida law requires only force, violence, assault, or intimidation for a robbery charge. The absence of a weapon or injury may affect the degree of the charge, but it does not eliminate the felony classification. Even grabbing property from someone while using any physical force can satisfy the statutory definition. Q: Can I be charged with robbery if I only intended to take property, not hurt anyone? A: Intent to cause injury is not required for a robbery conviction in Florida. The intent element the prosecution must prove is the intent to permanently deprive the victim of their property. The use of force or intimidation in connection with that taking is what elevates the offense from theft to robbery. --- Detailed version — see https://www.gilschaffnit.com/llms.txt for summary Generated by MileMark Schema Pro